Dakar , Senegal

Dakar City Tour and Goree Island

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(52 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Today you will enjoy a Dakar city tour to explore this bustling West Africa city with its colorful local markets.

You will also view the impressive African Monument Renaissance,Soumbedioune Market,art galleries before getting onboard for the Goree island excursion.There you will taste a delicious lunch before starting your visit with the slave house museum,some colonial sites and have have a stroll in this nice island.At 4:30pm you will take the ferry boat back to Dakar.The boat ride takes just 25mn

Back in Dakar where a courtesy vehicle will drive you back to your location..

Available options

City Tour with Goree island

Pickup included

What's included

Hotel drop-off

Professional guide

Bottled water

Lunch

Hotel pickup

Local taxes

Detailed itinerary

Our accredited guide will take you to the huge Monument of the African Renaissance and explain the cultural input of this monument for the African people.

What's not included

Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)

Drinks

Food and drinks, unless specified

Gratuities

Souvenir photos (available to purchase)

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.7

24 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.8

28 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Specialized infant seats are available

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Infant meals not included

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Child rate applies only when sharing with 2 paying adults

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Minimum drinking age is 18 years

At time of booking, Cruise ship passengers must provide the following information at time of booking: ship name, docking time, disembarkation time and re-boarding time

Refunds will not be issued if tour/activity is missed due to late or non-arrival of cruise ship

Dress code is formal

Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required

Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately

Meeting point

We can meet travelers at their hotel lobby or at their hotel exit gate.For travelers who are in a private appartment we will specify a startint point depending on the area

Important notes

Hotel pickups commence approximately 30 - 60 minutes prior to this time

Valid from the time of first use, for the consecutive days selected.

Valid from the time of first use, for the duration selected.

Valid from the time you exchange your voucher, for the consecutive days selected.

Valid from the time you exchange your voucher, for the duration selected.

About Dakar

Dakar, the vibrant capital of Senegal, is a dynamic city where African tradition meets French colonial influence. Known as the westernmost point of continental Africa, it offers stunning ocean views, rich cultural experiences, and a lively arts scene.

Top Attractions

Île de Gorée

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Île de Gorée is a small island known for its role in the Atlantic slave trade. It features historic buildings, museums, and a serene atmosphere.

Historical Half day Moderate

African Renaissance Monument

This towering statue is one of the tallest in Africa and symbolizes the continent's renaissance. It offers panoramic views of Dakar and the Atlantic Ocean.

Architecture 1-2 hours Free

Marché Sandaga

One of the largest markets in Dakar, offering a vibrant array of local goods, crafts, and food. It's a great place to experience the city's bustling market culture.

Market 1-2 hours Free to enter, bargaining expected

Dakar Cathedral

A striking example of modernist architecture, the Dakar Cathedral is a prominent landmark in the city. It's known for its unique design and cultural significance.

Religious 30 minutes Free

Mamelles Lighthouse

One of the oldest lighthouses in Africa, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the city. It's a great spot for photography and enjoying the ocean breeze.

Historical 1 hour Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Thieboudienne

Senegal's national dish, made with fish, rice, and vegetables in a tomato-based sauce.

Main dish Contains fish, can be made vegetarian with tofu.

Yassa Poulet

Chicken marinated in lemon and onion sauce, served with rice.

Main dish Contains chicken, can be made with fish or vegetables.

Mafé

A rich peanut stew made with meat (usually chicken or beef) and vegetables.

Main dish Contains meat, can be made vegetarian with tofu or vegetables.

Bissap

A refreshing drink made from hibiscus flowers, often served cold.

Drink Vegan, gluten-free.

Popular Activities

4x4 tours to Pink Lake Surfing at Yoff Beach Beach lounging at Yoff Beach Spa treatments in luxury hotels Visiting Île de Gorée Exploring local markets Attending cultural festivals Surfing

Best Time to Visit

November to June

This is the dry season, offering pleasant weather with clear skies and minimal rain. It's ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

24°C to 32°C 75°F to 90°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: French
Widely spoken: Wolof, English
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas

Currency

West African CFA franc (XOF)

Time Zone

GMT

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Dakar is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime such as pickpocketing and scams can occur. Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night.

Important Precautions:

• Keep your belongings secure.
• Use reputable taxi services.
• Avoid walking alone at night.

Getting there

By air

Léopold Sédar Senghor International Airport • 8 km from city center

By train

Available

By bus

Gare Routière de Dakar

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is the primary mode of public transport in Dakar. It is affordable and covers most of the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Car Rapid

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Plateau Sandaga Ouakam Yoff

Day trips

Île de Gorée

3 km from Dakar • Half day

A UNESCO World Heritage Site with a rich history and beautiful ocean views.

Pink Lake (Lac Rose)

40 km from Dakar • Full day

A stunning pink lake known for its unique color and salt extraction activities.

Saint-Louis

200 km from Dakar • Full day or overnight

A historic city known for its colonial architecture and cultural heritage.

Festivals

Dakar Festival of African Cinema (FCSA) • Annually in May Dakar Biennale • Biennially in May Tabaski (Eid al-Adha) • Varies annually (Islamic calendar)

Pro tips

Learn a few basic phrases in French or Wolof to enhance your experience and connect with locals.
Visit local markets for authentic shopping experiences and to practice bargaining.
Explore the city's vibrant arts and music scene, including the popular Mbalax genre.
Take a day trip to Île de Gorée for a historical and cultural experience.
Try traditional Senegalese dishes like Thieboudienne and Yassa Poulet.